Senior Public Affairs Manager

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Public Affairs Manager to lead government relations and public affairs initiatives in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on shaping policy, managing stakeholder relationships, and safeguarding the organization’s license to operate through CSR and strategic communications.

The ideal candidate has 8–10 years in public affairs, excellent negotiation and presentation skills, and a track record of influencing policy in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, Communications or related field.
• 8–10 years of experience in public affairs, government relations or corporate communications.
• Proven track record influencing policy and stakeholder relations.
• Strong knowledge of the regulatory landscape relevant to the industry.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute public affairs and government relations strategies.
• Build relationships with government officials, policymakers and community leaders.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments and advise on impacts.
• Represent the organisation in associations and public forums.
• Develop policy positions and advocacy materials.
• Manage CSR initiatives and communications.
• Organise stakeholder meetings and engagement sessions.
• Prepare position papers, briefings and presentations.
• Manage public perception and address community concerns.
• Collaborate with legal and communications teams to ensure cohesive messaging.

Skills

Stakeholder relations

Analytical skills

Strategic thinking

Negotiation

Public affairs

Presentation skills

CSR management

Education

Master's degree

Job description

About the Role Our client, a significant player in the Media & PR sector, is looking for a strategic and experienced Senior Public Affairs Manager to be based in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role is pivotal in managing the organization's public image and its relationships with government bodies, communities, and other key stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of public affairs, government relations, and corporate social responsibility. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence policy, shape public discourse, and contribute to the company's long-term success. We are seeking a proactive leader who can navigate complex environments and build strong, trusted relationships. The role involves developing and implementing advocacy strategies, monitoring legislative developments, and ensuring our client's voice is heard. Working within a hybrid model, you will have the flexibility to balance office-based and remote work, contributing to a dynamic work-life integration. Our client is committed to ethical practices and transparent communication, making this a rewarding position for a principled professional. Your expertise will be critical in navigating the regulatory landscape and fostering positive engagement with the **Richards Bay** community and beyond. This role is essential for maintaining and enhancing our client's reputation and operational license through effective public and governmental engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive public affairs and government relations strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, policymakers, regulators, and community leaders.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting the organization and advise on potential impacts.
• Represent the organization in relevant industry associations and public forums.
• Develop policy positions and advocacy materials.
• Manage the organization's corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and communications.
• Organize and facilitate stakeholder meetings and engagement sessions.
• Prepare position papers, briefings, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Manage public perception and address community concerns effectively.
• Collaborate with legal and communications teams to ensure cohesive messaging and strategy.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, or corporate communications, preferably in or near KwaZulu-Natal.
• Proven track record of successfully influencing policy and managing stakeholder relations.
• In-depth knowledge of the political and regulatory landscape relevant to our client's industry.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication and presentation abilities.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
• Demonstrated experience in managing CSR programs.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and office-based work.
• High level of integrity and ethical conduct.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, with earnings up to R per annum, reflecting the seniority and importance of this role.
• Comprehensive benefits include excellent medical aid coverage, a provident fund, and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including attending key policy forums and leadership training, are readily available.
• The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility, allowing for a healthy work-life balance.
• Employees benefit from a supportive team environment and the chance to work on impactful initiatives that shape the future of the company and the **Richards Bay** region.

This role offers significant influence and the opportunity to make a lasting contribution to our client's success and community engagement.